Agitators Break Through Perimeter, Pull Down Fences at Chicago DNC Leading to Multiple Arrests

Chicago Police respond to breach during Democratic National Convention protest fortifying perimeter by adding extra layer of fencing

Chicago police in riot gear move in on agitators who broke through the perimeter by pulling down fences in an effort to enter DNCPhoto byScreen Capture/Youtube Video [Creator]

CHICAGO — Thirteen individuals were arrested on the opening day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, following a security breach near the United Center. The breach occurred during a larger protest that saw thousands of demonstrators march through the city in a show of solidarity with Palestine, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to U.S. funding to Israel.

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling reported that approximately 3,500 protesters participated in the march, which began at Union Park and moved to Park 578, located just north of the United Center. While the majority of protesters demonstrated peacefully, a smaller group attempted to breach the security perimeter surrounding the convention venue.

The incident unfolded around 4:30 p.m. when a group of agitators within the protest dismantled locks on the outer fencing and knocked down part of the barrier. Some individuals passed through the gap in the fence and attempted to breach a second layer of fencing. Chicago police quickly intervened, preventing further escalation.

According to Snelling, the breach was brief, but during the incident, some protesters who had crossed the outer fence began throwing water bottles and other objects at police officers. Additionally, some officers were sprayed with pepper spray. Despite the confrontations, officers sustained only minor injuries.

"We're not going to tolerate vandalism and violence in our city," Snelling stated. "Our officers responded appropriately and swiftly to protect the city and ensure public safety. The Chicago Police Department's training and preparation, which we've been engaged in for over a year, were on full display."

Out of the 13 arrests made on Monday, about 10 were directly related to the security breach. Those arrested face charges including trespassing, resisting and obstructing police, and aggravated battery against police officers. Snelling commended his officers for their quick response, emphasizing that they did not overreact and were able to secure the area efficiently.

In response to the breach, the security perimeter around the United Center has been reinforced. On Tuesday morning, additional fencing was installed to prevent any further incidents. While U.S. Secret Service Democratic National Convention Coordinator Jeff Burnside did not provide specific details about additional security measures, he confirmed that repairs were made and that the multi-layered security approach remains in place.

"Our plan was in place, and it worked as intended," Burnside stated. "We are constantly evaluating our security measures in collaboration with our state, local, and federal partners. Lessons learned from incidents like this are used to make necessary adjustments."

The Chicago chapter of the National Lawyers Guild claimed that two of the individuals arrested on Monday required hospitalization, alleging that they were assaulted by police. However, Snelling refuted these claims, explaining that the individuals were taken to the hospital to receive necessary medication, not due to injuries sustained during their arrests.

"Those officers responded correctly, and we have body camera footage to support that," Snelling said. "Our protocol is to ensure that anyone we take into custody receives the medical care they need, including access to medication."

Despite the breach, Snelling affirmed that there was no need to alter the Chicago Police Department's public safety strategy during the DNC. He acknowledged that while it is impossible to predict every potential situation, the department's ability to respond effectively and prevent escalation demonstrates that their strategy is sound.

"We can't account for every scenario, but if we respond quickly and prevent a situation from worsening, then we've done our job," Snelling said.

He further noted that while the majority of protesters were peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights, a small group of individuals chose to remain after the main protest began dispersing and engaged in criminal activity by breaching the fence.

"The individuals who decided to commit crimes and engage in vandalism were not representative of the larger protest," Snelling said. "Our officers were trained to handle such situations, and their response ensured that the breach did not escalate into something more serious."

Snelling also addressed concerns about the use of force by the police during the incident, asserting that the officers exercised appropriate restraint. He acknowledged that there will always be differing opinions on police responses, but emphasized that the officers acted within the bounds of their training and authority.

"The officers could have used more force, but they showed great restraint in handling the situation," Snelling said. "There will always be critics of our actions, but our priority is to protect the city and its residents."

Snelling confirmed that body camera footage of the arrests would be released to the public after formal charges are filed against those involved. He dismissed claims from the National Lawyers Guild that two individuals were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, suggesting that their presence in the area was indicative of their involvement in criminal activity.

"Being in the wrong place at the wrong time is often a result of choices made to engage in unlawful behavior," Snelling said.

As the Democratic National Convention continues, Chicago police remain on high alert.